Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
Building Committee Update
May 2007
Applications for building and demolition permits were submitted to the City of Gaithersburg on April 26, 2007. Our architectural and structural plans will be thoroughly reviewed by the city in the coming weeks. Applications have also been submitted for upgraded sewer, water, electric, and gas. While these applications and permits are being processed, the Building Committee is struggling to reach final decisions on sound and projection systems, telephone and computer networks, a security system, sanctuary lighting fixtures, and space for the existing and future organ pipes. We are concentrating on all the things that will become permanent fixtures in the building and delaying decisions on movable items such as sanctuary seating until the permitting process and the construction drawings are finished.
In early May an updated price estimate should be communicated to the Building Committee. We expect Total Construction Services to present a fixed price construction contract to the GS congregation for consideration and review by the end of May. This schedule meshes well with the very important congregational meeting that the Church Council has called for on Sunday, June 10. At this important meeting the congregation will be asked to vote on the building/renovation plans and the financing plan and loan package that will permit GS to begin construction. The Building Committee encourages you to make every effort to be part of this historical meeting.
We are quickly approaching a major milestone in our building project. The planning process for the new construction/renovation is almost complete. Just as the City of Gaithersburg is being asked to approve the construction documents, so the congregation will be asked to say “yes” or “no”. The City uses building and safety codes to judge the project. What standard does the congregation use to judge the project? The “Growing in Ministry, Building to Serve” theme has provided guidance throughout the planning process: ministry first, building second. As you prepare for the June 10 meeting, we encourage you to ponder the question: “Does the building project support the growing ministry that is emerging at Good Shepherd?”
Ernie Kessler 301-963-5910
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Last Updated: 04/11/08 08:02 AM